War -

organized violence against an enemy of the state -

seems part and parcel of the American journey. Indeed, the United States was established by means of violence as ordinary citizens from New Hampshire to Georgia answered George Washington’s call to arms.

Since then, war has become a staple of American history. Counting the War for Independence, the United States has fought the armed forces of other nations at least twelve times, averaging a major conflict every twenty years. In so doing, the objectives have been simple- advance the cause of freedom, protect U.S. interests, and impose America’s will upon a troubled world. More often than not, the results have been successful, as America’s military has accounted itself well. Yet the cost has been high, in both blood and treasure as Americans have fought and died around the globe -

on land, at sea, and in the air. Without doubt, their actions have shaped the world in which we live.

In this comprehensive collection, Terence T. Finn provides a set of narratives -

each concise and readable -

on the twelve major wars America has fought. He explains what happened, and why such places as Saratoga and Antietam, Manila Bay and Midway are important to an understanding of America’s past. Readers will easily be able to brush up on their history and acquaint themselves with those individuals and events that have helped define the United States of America.
‘I believe this book should be essential reading for students of U.S. history and for military officers around the world.’ General Barry R. McCaffrey, U.S. Army (Ret.)

‘Not only does America at War provide a comprehensive, accessible overview

• the necessary prelude to analysis - it also raises the crucial political and moral issues of each conflict.’

Fred Morhart, Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate teacher, Fairfax County Public Schools, Virginia